Think like a man of action, and act like a man of thought.” - Henri L. Bergson
“I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.” – Hellen Keller
“Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly and not saying no soon enough.” - Josh Billings
“Even if you’re on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there” - Will Rogers
“Man often becomes what he believes himself to be. If I keep on saying to myself that I cannot do a certain thing, it is possible that I may end by really becoming incapable of doing it. On the contrary, if I have the belief that I can do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have it at the beginning.” - Mahatma Gandhi
“You can never cross the ocean unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.” - Christopher Columbus
“To a brave man, good and bad luck are like his left and right hand. He uses both.” - St Catherine of Siena
“When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we took so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened up for us” - Helen Keller
“We don’t see the things the way they are. We see things the way WE are.” - Talmund
“Every problem has in it the seeds of its own solution. If you don’t have any problems, you don’t get any seeds.” - Norman Vincent Peale
“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” - Dr Wayne Dyer
“The problem is not that there are problems. The problem is expecting otherwise and thinking that having problems is a problem.” - Theodore Rubin
“Pessimist : A person who says that O is the last letter of ZERO, instead of the first letter in word OPPORTUNITY.” - Anonymous
“Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” - Thomas A Edison
“Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting” -Elizabeth Bibesco
“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery. And today? Today is a gift. That’s why we call it the present.” - B. Olatunji
“When you get to the end of the rope, tie a knot and hang on.” - Franklin D Roosevelt
“Your attitude, not your aptitude, determines your altitude.” - Zig Ziglar
“If you’re going through hell, keep going.” - Winston Churchill
“The secret to success is to start from scratch and keep on scratching.” - Dennis Green
“Champions aren’t made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them a desire, a dream, a vision. They have to have the skill and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill.” - Muhammad Ali
“Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.” - Dale Carnegie
“So many of our dreams at first seems impossible, then they seem improbable, and then, when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable.” - Christopher Reeve
“Hard work spotlights the character of people. Some turn up their sleeves. Some turn up their noses, and some don’t turn up at all.” - Sam Ewing
“There are those who work all day. Those who dream all day. And those who spend an hour dreaming before setting to work to fulfill those dreams. Go into the third category because there’s virtually no competition.” - Steven J Ross
“Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” - Confucious
“Many of life’s failures are people who had not realized how close they were to success when they gave up.” - Thomas A Edison
“The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.” - Stephen Covey
“Efficiency is doing things right. Effectiveness is doing the right things.” - Peter Drucker
“Do you know what happens when you give a procrastinator a good idea? Nothing!” - Donald Gardner
“Success is what you attract by the person you become.” - Jim Rohn
“You have to ‘Be’ before you can ‘Do’ and ‘Do’ before you can ‘Have’. - Zig Ziglar
“You can have everything in life that you want if you will just help enough other people to get what they want.” - Zig Ziglar
“The test we must set for ourselves is not to march alone but to march in such a way that others wish to join us.” - Hubert Humphrey
“Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus when the limo breaks down.” - Oprah Winfrey
“Formal education will make you a living. Self education will make you a fortune.” - Jim Rohn
“It isn’t what the book costs. It’s what it will cost you if you don’t read it.” - Jim Rohn
“You must be the change you want to see in the world.” - Mahatma Gandhi
“The future has several names. For the weak, it is the impossible. For the fainthearted, it is the unknown. For the thoughtful and valiant, it is the ideal.” - Victor Hugo
“There is nothing more genuine than breaking away from the chorus to learn the sound of your own voice.” - Po Bronson
“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” - Waldo Emerson
“Use what talents you possess, the woods will be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best.” - Henry van Dyke
“Do not fear to be eccentric in opinion, for every opinion now accepted was once eccentric.” - Bertrand Russell
“History will be kind to me, for I intend to write it.” - Winston Churchill
“Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life’s about creating yourself.” - George Bernard Shaw
“Live your life each day as you would climb a mountain. An occasional glance towards the summit keeps the goal in mind, but many beautiful scenes are to be observed from each new vintage point.” - Harold B Melchart
“The tragedy of life doesn’t lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goals to reach.” - Benjamin Mays
“More often in life, we end up regretting the chances in life that we had, but didn’t take them, than those chances that we took and wished we hadn’t.” - Anonymous
“An excuse is worse and more terrible than a lie, for an excuse is a lie guarded.” - Pope John Paul I
“Don’t wish it were easier, wish you were better. Don’t wish for fewer problems, wish for more skills. Don’t wish for less challenges, wish for more wisdom.” - Earl Shoaf
That’s all from me. Do you have other inspirational positive quotes that you’ll like to share? Let me know in the comments!
I would love to go to the Uk and Scotland. I just have it so hard at the moment being without a job and funds and my marriage over. But I know that I have to be strong and get back on my horse because I know that someday I will be in the UK and my beloved Scotland where my heart is.
Ten steps you can take to find a new job, including where to look for jobs, the top job sites, how to use your connections, how to ace the interview, and how to follow up.
Use the job search engines to find jobs by using keywords that match your interests and the location where you want to work. Narrowing your search criteria will help you focus your job search and will give you more relevant job listings to review and less non-relevant job listings to weed through.
Create profiles on LinkedIn, Facebook, and VisualCV. A strong personal brand that portrays you in a professional light will provide recruiters, employers, and contacts with a strong positive impression of you as a candidate they should be interested in.
Now that you've created profiles on networking sites, use them. Connect with everyone you know, because you never know which contact may be able to help you with your job search or put you in touch with someone who can.
There are a variety of widgets, gadgets, and tools that will help expedite your job search and manage your career. Use them to organize your job search and save valuable job searching time.
Do you have a list of companies you would like to work for? It's a good idea to research company information and create a list of companies to target in your job search. All the information you need is available on the web, and it's easy to find detailed information about potential employers online.
Check job search engine sites, job banks, company web sites, networking sites, niche job sites, and sites listed by type of job. Consider working with a recruiter to maximize your opportunities.
It's important to take the time to write targeted resumes and cover letters that specifically link your qualifications to the hiring criteria for the jobs you are applying for. The hiring manager will be able to see, at a glance, why, and how, you are qualified for the job. You'll have a much better chance of getting an interview than if you send a generic letter and resume.
Research the company before you go for the interview, dress appropriately, practice answering and asking interview questions, and make a concerted effort to impress the interviewer with your skills, experience, confidence, and expertise.
It's important to follow up after an interview by thanking everyone you met with. Also reiterate your interest in the position and remind the hiring manager why you're an excellent candidate for the job.
When you receive a job offer, it's important to take the time to carefully evaluate the offer so you are making an educated decision to accept, or to reject, the offer. You don't have to accept a job just because it was offered to you, but do carefully evalute it and if you decline, do so politely.
Free stuff and services that parents can sign up to get for the young ones. You can find all kinds of goodies and free services like monitored chat and an easy to use Web page builder.
Rewardsgold.com is one one of the best rewards programs for getting free magazine subscriptions and digital audio books. They also claim to offer surveys and free samples.
Houseparty.com organizes "marketing parties" for a wide variety of companies. You can score some nice free stuff if this kind of thing interests you and you don't mind getting a lot of marketing email and postal mail.
College can be expensive, and not just because of the tuition. There are lots of expenses that arise from being away from home and to cover the necessities and niceties of college life.
DoubleTree Hotels and The National Arbor Day Foundation have teamed up and are giving away two trees to each of the fist 10,000 people to pledge to plant the trees.
Gardening is a great and rewarding hobby as well as a good way to save money on your food budget. However, buying seeds and especially young plants to get your garden started can be very expensive. Would you like to greatly reduce or even eliminate those costs? Wintersown.org can help by teaching you how to use recycled containers and free seeds to give your garden a free head start.
May 2nd is Ice Cream Day and it is often celebrated with free or very cheap ice cream promotions at some of the well known ice cream shops. Most of the shops run their promotions in April.
The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association offers a new free item every month. Most of the free offers are books, but occasionally they offer calendars, CDs, DVDs, or audio tapes.
Kraft Foods puts a lot of effort into keeping their brands foremost in the minds of consumers. One of the ways they do that is to provide free offers and free services related to food and healthy living.
The ASPCA is offering a free Animal Poison Control Center magnet with the toll-free Poison Control Center phone number and Web address so you have it in case of a poison emergency with your pet.
PetSmart if offering a free day for your dog at the PetSmart Doggie Day Camp. The offer is presented as a free printable coupon with a value of up to . You need to call to schedule your free day and take along the coupon.
Apple retail stores offer four free workshops that are recommended for kids ages 8 to 12. You can register your child for two of the three 2 and half hour workshops.
Tremor (a teen marketing site) is offering a free "Milk Reinvention Carton" and free magnets promoting three glasses of milk a day as a way for teens to manage weight. I presume this is sponsored by the Milk Marketing Board, but the site does not mention that.
The Highlights for Children Web site has many free hidden picture puzzles available with no registration required. Not only will you want to share the site with your kids, you may end up spending many hours there yourself.
NATO offers a free educational flags and capitals game both online and on a CD-ROM you can order for free. To tell the truth, I found the online version pretty unexciting, but hey -- It is educational and it is free.
When you register with Vocalpoint from Procter & Gamble they send you a free sample of Pantene and invite you to participate in future programs for new products. You may receive new products to evaluate and may be asked to spread the word about them to your friends.
Storyline Online offer free read-along stories. The stories are read by Screen Actors Guild members using flash movies to display the books as they are read. There are also fun activities and lesson ideas to go along with each book.
This coloring pages site offers a nice variety of full-page printable coloring pages for kids. The coloring pages are organized into categories including cartoon characters, holidays, animals, dinosaurs, transportation, and many more. The coloring pages site can be navigated by kids but appears to be more geared toward parents locating and printing the coloring pages for the kids. There are also many other activities and games available from the site navigation menus.
Ford is offering ten free Itunes donwloads - This offer requires quite a bit of effort but you may become a better driver while you are at it (US, ages 15 – 18)
The ASPCA is offering up to free pet rescue alert stickers - The stickers are intended to notify rescue workers that there are pets inside in case of an emergency
If you clear level four of their fairly easy break-out style game you get a free Sharpie Mini Marker. You will need to be able to see pop-ups to claim your prize when you win and you will need the confirmation email also. (US)
Create-A-Book has an online system that allows you to print out a custom coloring book spelling your child's name, the entire alphabet, or whatever you want.
If you are looking for information on colleges and request information from Andrews University they offer a free pack of gum. Click on the "Future Students" link. (US)
The US EPA offers a free endangered species coloring book and poster. You can request the coloring book and or the poster by phone or download the coloring book as a PDF file. (US)
Anheuser-Busch is offering free admission to SeaWorld, Busch Gardens or Sesame Place parks to members of the US Military and their direct dependents. (US)
The first 50,000 to enter the Keebler "Magic by the Million" instant win game get a free bag clip. There is also a 1 in 2 chance of getting a coupon for a free bag of cookies. If you don't have a UPC code you can get one on the site by clicking the "no purchase necessary" link. If you have not registered with Keebler before you need to register first. (US)
PETA offers a free subscription to this publication aimed at convincing kids to live "animal friendly" lives. If you think PETA stands for "People Eating Tasty Animals" or have a problem with your kids deciding to go vegetarian, this magazine may not be for your family. (International)
Love Lives On offers books to help comfort those, especially children, who have suffered the loss of a family member. Please only request this if you can make use of it. There are also downloadable versions. (US)
This one is a little more work than freebies that I normally list, but it's all in the interest of good dental hygiene for the kids. You need to print the PDF form, have your dentist stamp or sign it, buy a Colgate product, then mail the form with proof of purchase. (US, purchase required, mail-in)
The National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information is offering a free McGruff comic book dealing with the dangers of smoking, taking illicit drugs, and drinking alcohol. Also included are activities for adults and children to do together. (US)
Club Lego offers a free two year subscription to Lego Magazine if you live in the US, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, Austria, Germany, or Switzerland. (International)
The mission of this non-profit organization is to provide computers to families with school age kids that would not otherwise be able to afford a computer. The computers must be picked up at their office in Winter Haven, Florida. (US)
The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development offers a number of goodies including a coloring, book, poster and other publications. (US)
For every three books your kids read, you can register for a free AMC Theatres kid's pack including a soft drink, popcorn and a snack when you go to movie at an AMC location. (US)
When you register your kids age 6-14 for KidzEyes they can take surveys to earn points for cash. They earn worth of points for registering. Parents need to send or fax a permission form or call their toll-free number. (US)
¡Soy Unica! ¡Soy Latina! offers free materials to help provide positive messages to 9- to 14-year-old Hispanic girls. Click on the order stuff link at the bottom right after choosing your language. (US)
The Official Idaho Potatoes site offers a free sticker and recipe booklet. You need to print and mail in the order form. Click on "Spuddy Offers". (US)
Sherri Osborn of the About Family Crafts site is offering a free set of stickers, but you need to do a little work. Choose a craft from her list, make the craft and send her a picture. See the site for full details. (US)
I have written in the past about the many different places that there are to look for freelance writing work. There are classified ad sites like Craigslist where jobs are advertised. There are bid sites like Elance that you can sign up to participate in (although I’ve never liked that option much). There are proactive options like coldcalling and contacting potential new clients via email.
I have used all of those at one time or another and still do use them regularly (minus the bid sites). However, the thing that I do most frequently to look for new freelance writing work is to check the links on the websites that offer freelance job leads. These job leads may come from the individual sites (like Craigslist) or may be in the form of posts about individual jobs. Either way, they typically provide a good collection of leads that point me in the right direction for what work is being offered out there.
Here are the ten sites that I’m checking most frequently for job leads in 2009:
Freelance Writing Gigs. Deb Ng continues to be the best provider out there for daily leads on jobs. There’s a list of links up every weekday (and some weekends) as well as smaller individual posts from specific potential clients.
About Freelance Writing. Deb Ng pointed readers in the direction of leads on this site recently which turned me on to the site. There are fewer leads here but they’re posted steadily and they are sometimes different from what you’re seeing on the other sites.
All Freelance Writing. The same post by Deb that pointed me in the direction of About Freelance Writing also pointed me here. Same deal. Good stuff.
Problogger. I continue to check the Problogger job leads daily for info on potential blogging jobs that may be available.
Performancing Blogger Jobs. This one isn’t nearly as good as problogger but people seeking blogging work may find the occasional good lead here.
Freelance Job Openings. Usually only a few posted here each day but often ones worth pursuing.
Online Writing Jobs. This is a comprehensive list of what’s out there. It can be overwhelming but you can filter by the type of jobs that you want to look at (blogging, articles, books, etc.) so that makes it easier to find the work that you want.
Absolute Write. Only a couple posted here each day but always different from what’s being advertised elsewhere.
Media Bistro. Many of the jobs here are on-site jobs but you can sometimes find telecommute work.
Journalism Jobs. Same deal as Media Bistro but often worth a look.
Hello everyone, its been a while since I have been on. I have been busy looking for work, going to school and trying to jump start my life again. Last year I relized after reading so many stories here that I need to take control of my life and get it going again. I do realize that chating with the numerouse members here has helped me a lot and reading their stories and advice has also helped. I a, back now and will be posting new and hopefully helpful blogs to benefit all. Take care and have a great week.
Hi Kari, sorry for the delay in responding. I haven't been on in a while and just how saw your message. There are a lot of scams out there I always hold that if it sounds to good to be true it is.. There are alot of companies that you can work from home from and you can make money BUT you do have to like selling and marketing yourself (Avon, Jafra, Tupperware etc.)you can also do things that you like if you have a hobbie like scapbooking, crafts etc make things and create yourt own store and sale your items on ebay and other sites I know many people that make good money this way.Sit down and ask your self if you can do anything and you would do it for free thats the road you want to take. Good luck and keep in touch and let me know how its going.
Hi Linda, I haven't been on in a while and thought I would check in and see how you and your family are doing. Have you found a job yet? I am still looking I have noticed that alot of agencies have jobs in other states none here :( I thought I would try my hand back at doing Temp Work the last time I did this I found the best job I ever had so I have been thinking thats the route for me, it allows me to learn new things and also evaluate companies to see if that is where I want to be. I dont know if you ever done temp Work buts its alot of fun and you get to network a lot better. Let me know how everything is goings and I will contnue to hold you and yours in my prayers...and oh yeh Linda is a wonderful name :))))
hello everyone, just wanted to let everyone know that the Health,Dental and eye care event is free and will be going on for 7 days here in Southern California. This is a great time for anyone needing care to get down there and get your ar,m bands so you can get the care needed.
Free Health Clinic in LA
Remote Access Medical health fair at Sports Arena.
Updated: Tuesday, 27 Apr 2010, 9:06 AM PDT Published : Monday, 26 Apr 2010, 7:38 PM PDT
Los Angeles - More than 5,600 people are expected to show up for a free seven-day medical and dental clinic at the Los Angeles Sports Arena, starting today.
Organizers handed out 5,599 wristbands Sunday to people -- some of whom waited in line overnight -- for a shot at getting free medical, dental and vision care during the Remote Access Medical health fair and clinic, which is put on by a Tennessee-based nonprofit group.
About a third of Los Angeles County residents have no health insurance.
The number of people lining up for the free clinic was overwhelming. Organizers agreed to accept additional patients when they realized people were still lined up outside the Sport Arena when they stopped handing out wristbands Sunday, according to James Bolden, spokesman for Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas.
Bolden also said organizers were telling people without wristbands to come to the clinic on the chance that they still might be seen. The clinic will begin at 6 a.m. each day.
RAM hopes to treat up to 1,200 patients each day. Many of its other clinics are held in rural areas or undeveloped countries.
Depending on how many doctors volunteer to help, the clinic could treat more people than those who received wristbands Sunday, Jackie Quintanilla of RAM said, describing Sunday's crowd as "very calm and organized and thankful to get wristbands."
In August, RAM held a free eight-day clinic at the Forum in Inglewood and treated more than 6,000 people, but others were turned away.
RAM, comprised of volunteer health care professionals, will set up 40 medical exam rooms, 100 dental chairs and 30 eye exam stations and will provide full medical examinations, including mammograms, PAP smears, chest x-rays, diabetes screening, blood pressure screening, dental examinations including cleanings, extractions, fillings, restorative procedures and root canals, prescription eye glass fittings and cataract surgery.
Attendees will not be required to show proof of income or insurance.
Whoknew, hello being an ex-catholic I agree with a lot of what you have said.I left the church because they did act as if we should just listen and do what ever they said and being a person that always ask why, while lets say we did not see eye to eye..lol I did find a great Christian church that does more for the community here in Covina then any of the Catholic Churches (three) they have harvest festivals with rides and games FREE for all that comes..when the Catholic Churches have theres it cost a person an arm and a leg..and has anyone been to Italy to he vatican, there are millions of dollars in art, statues, gold while starving poor people are outside on the street begging for food it terrible. The Catholic church is rich and the catholic charities do try I just thinkwith all theirmoney they can be doing a lotmore.
Hello there, I would first check out trade schools in your area that offer classes for LVNs, their financial aid office can help you with the Grants, Scolarships and loans, it usually will take you 18 months to complete an LVN program.
Once you have completed this you can start working, I would go and get a job at a hospital as most of them have education programs where they will pay for you to continue your education so you can proceed to
a RN program.I will tell you to take a lot more math classes as the entrance exam for a good RN school is not easy and has a lot of math (Algebra) involved but you can do it.
I have decided that I would start thenew year (which is close) in finding the best articles to help everyone out of their financial hole they have found themself in. I have found one such article by David Kimball I myself have put into practice many if not all of the suggestions that he has outlines here. I hope that the articles that I am sharing can help at least one person find financial freedom.
In order to begin budgeting money successfully, a mindset change is needed. This is one of the integral keys to financial planning. Swing your concentration from spending money to saving money. To influence this shift, it takes a greater consciousness of how you are earning, spending, and saving your income.
It is vital to set reasonable financial objectives for yourself and your family that you can reach individually and in a group effort. You must stick the spending limits you set. Remember, however, that budgeting money is a trial and error process. In the beginning, you will have to adjust your goals; keep them reasonable and do not get carried away.
One of the goals to achieve in order to develop a debt-free lifestyle is to eliminate credit card debt. Stay away from the ATM; it is not your friend when you are budgeting money.
Begin by keeping an accurate track of all your expenses. Count every penny, whether it goes out on a regular or irregular basis and work it into your monthly expense accounting. Get to know your spending habits and keep the good ones, while eliminating the bad ones.
Understand your income by setting up your income plan. It is vital to know what is coming in, where it is coming from and the amount as you adjust it in terms of a monthly record. Next, know your expenses. Determine which expenses are compulsory and which can be reduced, or even altogether eliminated when budgeting your money.
Discuss ways to reduce the necessary expenditures. Make allowances for each individual's incidental expenses. Put yourself and your children on weekly allowances. Have a group allowance to cover family fun activities. Start living below your means, rather than beyond your means.
Too many American families are in financial trouble today because they bought into the credit card company's and bank's tactics to convince them to live above their means. When you live below your means, you spend less than you take in. This type of budgeting results in savings, elimination of debt, and the ability to live debt free.
As you start budgeting your money, it will not take long for you to see which expenses are vital and which are unnecessary. Once you have determined the necessities and targeted the overspending, you can begin to reduce debt and increase savings. All the money you once spent on impulse buys or just plain wasted can be applied to eliminating credit card debt, paying down your mortgage, and building your savings.
Remember, this is not an overnight fix. It probably took you years to get where you are financially and, depending where that is, it may take nearly as long until you can truly say that you are living debt free. You will, however, begin to see the practical application of what we are discussing almost immediately and you will feel the noose of your debt burden loosening, all by simply taking these first steps of budgeting money.
You are now ready for the next step and learn more about making a budget. Another great step to take is get on my list of free tips on budgeting. You will stay up to date with some great information and have access to free downloads.
David Kimball is a personal finance coach, author, and speaker who is passionate about, and committed to, you living out a financially free life. Check out his website at http://www.household-budget-made-easy.com.
Penny pinching is much more popular these days and everyone is looking for ways to save money, spend wisely and generally be financially healthier. Here are some suggestions.
1. Turn off the lights when you leave a room, even if for a short time. Mythbusters proved that it's more economical to shut off the lights. Use energy Saving Light Bulbs in all rooms. Use power strips for appliances and turn off all appliances at the wall to save money on electric bills, thismeans if you are not using the TV unplug them, the only item that should always be plugged in is your refrigarator and security system (if you have one)
2. Look for energy saving appliances that bear the energy star label.
3. Keep your freezer full. A freezer works harder when there are fewer contents. This is because the contents will help keep themselves cold and the appliance doesn't have to do it. keeping a 5 pound bag of ice in the freezer helps also
4. Shop at yard sales, garage sales, discount stores and second hand stores, Freecycle, Craigslist, Penneysaver, Recycler. Gently used is not a crime and you should not be ashamed. This is just smart shopping.
5. If you have a water softener be sure to use less soap in your dishwasher and washing machines. This saves quite a bit of money during the year and the clothes and dishes will be just as clean. In your white clothes try a tablespoon of white viniger in the rinse water instead of bleach you will save money here and your clothes will be cleaner and last longer.
6. Shop for generic brand items when possible. If you can combine a coupon with a sale then the name brand item can often be cheaper than the generic. Pay attention to the store sales, weekly coupons and look for the cheapest price at the time. Buy in bulk if you can store it.
7. When travelling shop for souvenirs at local stores instead of tourist traps. Avoid the markups and consult guidebooks and internet sites before leaving town in order to find the best deals and savings.
8. When shopping online always look for coupon codes. If shopping at Amazon hold the item in your cart for a while to see if the price changes. Often times there are big fluctuations.
9. Repurpose items in your house instead of buying new. You can repaint a bookshelf or desk and use it in a different room.
10. Sell any items you have used in a year. If you've gone four season without needing it then it's probably safe to get rid of it. Price the item on sites like ebay to determine if you should sell it online or at a local garage sale.
11. Pay your bills on time to prevent late fees and reconnect fees. If you truly can't pay then make arrangements with the company. Often times you can keep the services going if you make a payment plan and stick with it.
These ten tips can help you to cut down on general expenses and overcome your financial struggles, I have used meny if not all of them and not that I am rollin in money but I am keeping my head above water in these hard times. I have to say that according to some of the top economist things are not going to get better anytime soon, its up to us a people to start making the changes we need to so we can survive these time and be in shape for when things get better and they will get better.
1. Spend Less on Gas
Driving erratically has a negative impact on fuel economy, because accelerating quickly and braking suddenly uses more gas than would be used when driving conservatively. By accelerating at a moderate pace and braking less often, you can increase gas mileage and spend less on gas. You can also save money on gas by seeking stations with the lowest prices. Gaspricewatch.com can help to compare gas prices in your area.Also if you can walk to the store or your kids school or ride a bike then do this. I can not tell you howmuch I have saved on gas by just using the legs that GOD blessed me with to get from point a to point b and oh yes I alsolost about 10 pounds so you get added benefits.
2. Save Money on Your Phone Bill
With cell phones becomming increasingly popular, people are using their landlines less and less. If you find yourself using only your cell phone, you would be wise to cancel your land line and thereby save upwards of $50 a month on phone expenses. And, once you're down to only a cell phone, you can save even more money by finding the cheapest plan that fits your needs. Myrateplan.com can help you decide which cell phone plan is the best value for you. I know some will save that you need the land line for the internet...wrong.. you can use you cell phone with your desk top to get online and guess what faster
3. Keep Track of Your Spending
By recording exactly how you spend your money for one month, you'll be able to see where all your cash really goes. You may find, for example, that you're throwing away $20 a week on fast food runs. By becoming aware of what you're actually spending, you may be able to cut back on needless expenses. See what spending you can do for yourself instead of paying someone else.
4. Save Spare Change
Instead of leaving it in your purse or wallet where you'll likely spend it, save spare change in a jar. A few cents here or there may not seem like much, but it really does add up. Saving just a dollar a day in change equates to saving $365 in a year!
5.Save Money on Bank Fees
Be sure to sign up with a bank that has free checking. You should never have to pay for your checking account. Also, by withdrawing money only from the ATM machine at your own bank, you'll rack up savings in ATM fees.
6. Use Cash, Not Credit
You're less likely to overspend if you're paying with cash instead of a credit card, because cash obligates you to immediately pay for what you're purchasing. When you're going to the grocery store, for example, you'll be less likely to spend $20 extra on junk food that isn't on your list if you only have a $100 bill to spend.
7. Use Direct Deposit
Have a portion of each paycheck automatically deposited into your savings account. If you never have access to that money, you can't spend it and likely won't even miss it.
8. Eat at Home
Cooking meals at home is far less expensive than eating out every night. For the same price that you'll spend on one night of dining out, you can buy enough food at the grocery to make up to a week's worth of dinners at home. That is not to say that you should eliminate all trips to the restaurant, but cutting out just one or two restaurant meals a week can save you hundreds of dollars a year.
9. Pay All Your Bills on Time, and Pay Credit Card Bills in Full
By paying for all your bills on time, you will eliminate late fees and save up to $30 on each bill. And, if you must have a credit card, pay it off in full each month. Paying only the minimum balance each month costs much more over the long run, as you will pay high amounts of interest.
10. Look for Ways to Save on Income Taxes
You may be able to receive a tax cut that you're not aware of. Make sure you know of tax cuts relating to charity, children, education etc. so you're not paying more in income taxes than you need to be.
Thomas J Berry is an expert affiliate marketer who teaches others how to successfully and effectively use Internet to earn a full time income from home.
I have a friend that started this website called Helping Neighbors. I wouldlike to share it with everyone, I have received help from it and its a great site to let others around the country see you and help if they can. http://www.helpneighbors.com/ if you need help or wouldlike to help someone this is a great start and anything you give goes directly to the family. My daughter received a lovely neckless from a company here in California and its great I know she ill love it when she opens it on Christmas. I would not list Christmas help at this late date as most people that are helping have chosen a family but if you need any further help makea profile and good luck.
Better Business Bureau has received more than 1,500 complaints about several dozen Web sites that are trading on the Google name to scam people who want to learn about making money from home. Because the sites often use the Google name and prominently display its iconic logo, consumers often assume they are getting a job with Google when in fact they were getting taken in by yet another work-at-home scheme.
“Many families are looking for ways to earn extra money for the holidays and Web sites touting the huge money-making potential of working from home often seem like an answer to prayer,” said Alison Southwick, BBB spokesperson. “Unfortunately, most work-at-home opportunities don’t deliver on what they promise and victims find that instead of making a few extra dollars, they lose hundreds.”
Two Web sites, Google Treasure Chest and Google Money Tree, quickly racked up 523 and 782 BBB complaints respectively before being called out by the Federal Trade Commission and state Attorneys General for misleading consumers. The Web sites have been taken down, however, BBB has received complaints about many other work-at-home schemes using similar tactics, including Google Biz Kit, Google Cash, Google Money Profits, and Google Success Kit.
While the schemes go by many different names and are found on many different Web sites, the complaints to BBB tell a similar story. Complainants state that they signed up online to receive a free trial of a CD or access to information that would show them how to make money from home using Google. Consumers had to provide a credit or debit card number to cover shipping — which is typically only a few dollars.
Complainants to BBB state that they were billed before their trial ended — or never even received the CD — and continued to be billed after they had cancelled their order. Complainants also found mystery charges from several other businesses for services they didn’t realize they were signing up for with their “free” trial. One Georgia complainant’s bank account was debited $433 by various entities including Grant Finder, Web Training, Powersale, Safelock, Google Chest, Search Chest, A1Member and Auction Support.
Before signing up for any work-at-home opportunity, BBB advises job hunters to: • Review the business’s BBB Reliability Report® at bbb.org to see if BBB reports complaints or other concerns you need to consider.
• Beware of any offer that guarantees a lot of money for little effort and no experience.
• Thoroughly read the Web site’s terms and conditions, keeping in mind that a free trial could cost you in the end.
• Be wary of work-at-home offers that use logos from Google, Twitter or other prominent online businesses. Just because Google is in the name, it doesn’t mean the business is affiliated with Google.
• Research the Web site with Whois.net or a similar site for determining domain name ownership. If the site is anonymous or individually registered, beware.
For more advice on evaluating work-at-home companies and schemes, visit www.bbb.org.
Fraudulent emails referencing CDC-sponsored State Vaccination Program
(December 1, 2009)
CDC has received reports of fraudulent emails (phishing) referencing a CDC sponsored State Vaccination Program.
The messages request that users must create a personal H1N1 (swine flu) Vaccination Profile on the cdc.gov website. The message then states that anyone that has reached the age of 18 has to have his/her personal Vaccination Profile on the cdc.gov site.
The CDC has NOT implemented a state vaccination program requiring registration on www.cdc.gov. Users that click on the email are at risk of having malicious code installed on their system. CDC reminds users to take the following steps to reduce the risk of being a victim of a phishing attack:
Do not follow unsolicited links and do not open or respond to unsolicited email messages.
Use caution when visiting un-trusted websites.
Use caution when entering personal information online.
10 Tips on Avoiding Work At Home and Home Based Business Scams
1. Never, NEVER pay for the chance to work!
This is the cardinal rule. You should treat working at home just like you would treat working for an employer at their place of business.
If you were going for a job interview in the 'real world,' how would you react if the interviewer asked you to pay $50 or $100 to land the job, for starter materials, or for a 'good faith' payment to make sure you were serious about the business?
You'd think it was absurd. No legitimate company charges employees a fee for a job.
Whenever you're asked to pay for the chance at a job, or information about work-from-home jobs, you know it's a scam.
Home-based businesses, on the other hand, may require start-up costs to cover investments, materials, franchises, or other items. As we state in the next step, check things out before you pay anything.
2. Check out the business before you pay anything.
Have you heard of the business that's soliciting your money?
If not, check them out carefully. Make sure they have a physical address and a phone number. Call to see if it's a real phone number. Do a search on http://www.Google.com to see if you can find any positive or negative comments. Check references carefully.
Some warning signs of scammer companies:
- They use free Web hosting services (such as Tripod or Geocities).
- They use free Web email services (such as Yahoo! Mail or Hotmail).
- They use Post Office boxes for mailings and don't disclose their real addresses.
- They won't give you a telephone number where you can contact them.
This sounds counter-intuitive, but if you are going to buy a starter kit or make some investment relating to a home-based business, purchase using your credit card.
That way, if you don't receive the items, or if things go wrong, you can dispute the charges with your credit card company. If you're unsure how to do this, speak to your credit card company *before* you make the purchase.
4. Research the market for the proposed business/work.
Every scammer will promise unlimited wealth and easy work. With a little virtual footwork, you can see whether you can make money doing this kind of business or work.
If you're thinking of starting a medical billing practice, for example, call a few doctors and hospitals in your city or town and ask if there would be a market for your services. As we mentioned in the last issue, you may be surprised to discover just how limited the market really is.
5. Beware of vagueness and incredible claims.
Companies that don't state their names, costs, or other important information in their ads usually have a good reason to do so -- they're scammers. As well, be wary of claims that you can"make up to $1,000 a week" doing just a few hours' worth of unskilled work.
Don't be blinded by greed.
6. Put yourself in the employer's/client's shoes.
If you were an honest employer (or client, if you're looking to work from home), think about whether you would make the same kind of offer you're being pitched.
For example, you've read an ad where you can earn $1-2 per piece stuffing envelopes. But companies nowadays have access to sophisticated mailing equipment that can stuff thousands of envelopes an hour -- why would they pay you so much more?
7. Consider starting your own home-based business.
If you're really interested in working for yourself, starting your own home-based business can be a great idea. It also involves a lot of work, and much of the time, some investment.
This is not a decision to make lightly, nor should you start a business just because you can't find a job.
Having said that, starting your own business -- if you're willing to do your homework and do what's necessary to make it a success -- may well become one of the best decisions you ever made.
There are lots of great resources on starting a legitimate home business. (But remember, you won't receive them via spam.)
8. Don't come across as desperate.
You may be in dire straits financially, but it's worth your while to act calmly and professionally -- just like you would in a real-world job search.
Posting messages on forums saying that you are in financial trouble, or desperate to find work from home is a bad idea. Desperation is like blood to sharks -- it'll bring all of the scammers out of the woodwork, and you'll be inundated with phony offers.
9. Be patient.
If you're looking to start a home-based business, or looking for telecommuting work you can do at home, you may have a considerable search ahead of you. There are a *lot* of people in the same boat, many of whom are falling prey to scams every day.
Don't let scammers use high-pressure tactics to sucker you in. If you're given a time-limited offer, there's usually a reason why -- scammers know that pressure brings in people!
Even if you're in dire straits, it pays to be patient... so that you don't lose money to schemes that never materialize.
10. And most important, NEVER reply to spam.
Fraudulent offers for home-based businesses or work-at-home opportunities almost always arrive as spam. The better it sounds, the less likely that it's legitimate.
Scammers aren't planning to deliver anyway, so what does it matter to them what they promise? Delete and move on.
Not sure of what you ment BUT I have been contacted by many people that have told me that they have been ripped off by this company, so they say Buyer beware and I will continue to let people know if a company has a rep of being a scam and they can take it from there.
Posted in How are you today? on Dec 11, 2009... modified on Dec 11, 2009
This is for all Southern California families only. I have good books that my kids have out grown and I am willing to give to someone so they can give them to their kids at Christmas.These books are in good condition and great reads. Someof the titles are Homicidal Psycho Jungle Cat(this is a cute cartoon book and there are two), A Day in the woods, Wonderful Worms,Dogs,Lets Go to the Moon, Home Coming (great for kids 10 and up),winnie the Pooh,Felicity and American Girl (this is a collection and great for young girls 10 and up) there are a lot more,to many tolist. Please I am only giving to people in Southern California as I have no money for shipping and books will need to be picked up. Please email me if interested,these books will make a great Christmas present.
Daisy, I dont know if you attend church BUT if you do I would contact my church and see if they have any help that you can get. I know when I went to my church resently they paid all of my utilities so that they were not disconnected. I would also check with catholic Charities, Salvation Army social service department, check local churches that have a neighborhood social service department. Good luck and GOD bless
The Church of Christ Giving Tree program has grown and branched out to include give aways at their 1301 Main St location. Several times a year they open the building to area families in need of clothing and food. Last year they gave out over 118 thousand pounds of food to area familes, this year looks to be doubled. They also host the Angel Food program at this location. Call the church directly and find out when their next giveaway will be held. I would also check and see if they are offering any help for families at Christmas.
Contact Information: North Canton Church of Christ 1301 East Maple Street North Canton, OH 44720 Phone: 330.499.4303
Clothing and small household items away every Wednesday from 1-4 p.m. to Clinton County residents in need of assistance. Donations are accepted during this time. Call for more information.
For over 23 years, the ALFC church family has provided clothing to over 1500 families a year in the El Paso and Juarez area. Clothes are given away throughout the year and anyone attending service on a give-away Sunday may receive as much clothing as needed for his/her immediate family. If you need clothing please call their offices for information about their next giveaway 915.532.8543 . This churches does a lot for their community for Christmas, thanksgiving Back to school. I advise anyone living in these areas to contact the church or vist theor website at http://www.alfc.com/alfc/our_church/welcome/tabid/388/Default.aspx. This is one of the largest churches in the el Paso area and has a large resouce to draw from. They also have a food pantry,
As a result of the generous giving of the ALFC church family and donations from other organizations and businesses, approximately 500 bags of food per week are given to families in need after each of our regular services. Each year, nearly 400,000 pounds of food are distributed. Recipients may receive food as often as they attend church.
To receive food, simply visit one of our regular adult services; and you will receive a coupon to pick up free food after the service has ended. Sounds great to me.
Daisy, have you tried your unemployment benefits? they have given numerous extensions and one just in November be sure to apply for them that way you can get some money.
Hello, I noticed that you are looking mainly for clothes for the family. I would try the local Freecycle.com and see if anyone has these items that they would like to donate, I would also check the local Craigslist as well as go to the Goodwill and Salvation Army. I know that with both the Salvation Army and Goodwill if you go to their social service department they will give vouchers where you can go to their stores and get the needed clothes and other items. Good luck and GOD bless
With so many people out of work, companies closing down, jobs being outsoursed to other countries and no sign of them coming back (thank you President Obama) its time for people to take the lead and get themselves trained and back working. I found this article that tells the fastest growing careers and the salaries, these salaries differ from state to state and city to city.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a higher than average rate of growth for many positions and roles in the healthcare industry through 2010 (Source: bls.gov 2008-2009). From registered nurses to medical assistants, here are the best career opportunities and salary outlook if you're interested in a career in the healthcare industry:
1. Medical Assistants. These healthcare professionals are responsible for coordinating day-to-day office operations in a healthcare facility, managing patient files, and keeping track of patient activities on a doctor or physician's behalf. Special training is often required, making this a specialized role beyond a typical receptionist or front desk position; as a result, average annual salaries are a reported $27,190 for 2008 and the industry is expected to accommodate for a 35 percent growth through 2010.
2. Receptionists and information clerks. From healthcare database libraries to manning the front desk of a retail healthcare operation, receptionists will continue to be in high demand for the upcoming years. The occupational growth is expected to reach at least 17 percent, offering an average annual salary of $23,180. The sector is expected to increase by 202,000 new jobs through 2010.
3. Computer software engineers. As the healthcare industry continues to rely on computer applications and databases to manage recordkeeping, reporting, and general administration, demand for innovative and skilled developers of computer software is also on the rise. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a whopping 45 percent growth in this segment. The average salary for computer software engineers is $82,000 in 2008.
4. Registered nurses. Almost 600,000 new jobs are expected to open up for registered nurses through 2010, with increasing opportunities in management and supervisory positions. The average annual salary for RNs is $59,730 for 2008, and the position requires the completion of a nursing program as well as gaining experience through intership or formal training program at a hospital
5. Nurses aides. The demand for certified nursing aides is increasing as baby boomers retire and require special care. Average salaries are $22,960, or between $11.00 - $13.00 per hour for 2008. While this doesn't seem like enough for someone completing their education in the medical field, nursing aides do have many opportunities for career growth and can build their skills to take on roles with more responsibility.
6. Home health aides. Home health aides are needed to take care of patients before and after surgery in the comfort of their own homes. The position requires certification in order to act as a caregiver or personal attendant. This segment of the healthcare industry is also growing rapidly with growing demand for specialized care for the elderly, mothers on maternity leave, and for patients who are recovering from surgery. The average annual salary is $20,100 for 2008, and it is one of the fastest growing specializations with an anticipated growth of 49 percent.
7. Computer systems analysts. With both corporate hospitals and independent practices relying on efficient computer systems and networks to manage data, demand for computer systems analysts is also on the rise. The position requires in-depth knowledge of hospital and clinic operations along with software options applicable to the industry. Average annual salaries for computer systems analysts across all industries are expected to be $72,230 in 2008 with a 29 percent increase in jobs.
The healthcare industry is quickly adapting to technology and requiring skilled computer systems engineers, analysts and administrators as a result. It is also anticipating rapid growth in the fields of home health care and patient care, and registered nurses, home health aides, and personal attendants can all enjoy more opportunities in the upcoming years.
I agree, abortion is never the answer, remember to have an abortion is to have that on your mind for the rest of your life, the fact that you would have had a daughter or son and each year you will remember that child would have been a year older. Abortion is something that you can never excape. If you have this child and decide you can raise it there is always adoption, there are so many good families out there that would willingly adopt and love your child for the rest of its life. You would always know that your child was in good hands being tooken care of and sometimes if you have an open adoption they will allow you to still be part of that childs life. Think about this real clearly and remember abortion is just a nice name for murder and it will be something that will haunt you, I know I know women that have had abortions and that is something after 15 and 22 years later they have not gotten over. Good luck and GOD bless
Here since: Feb 20, 2012
Female, 32
Henrico, VA, US
Hello
This is my first time on this site. I have been searching online for help just as many of you on here do. I am a wife and mother of 3 children. My husband, oldest child, and I are disabled. We... see full post
